Indian Miss America resonates as symbol of change

UNDATED (AP) — Nina Davuluri is striking a chord with many people as the first Indian-American Miss America.

The nation already has its fair share of Indian-American governors, CEOs, scientists, actors and other high achievers. But many observers say that Davuluri’s victory resonates because it shows the promise of America.

Amardeep Singh is an English professor at Lehigh University. He says that Miss America is a symbol of national identity. So when an Indian woman wins, it shows him that America is willing to accept and celebrate an Indian version of beauty.

Singh also notes that Davuluri is among a generation of Indians born in America to immigrant parents. He says they are confident that America will accept them and their culture.